I had an interesting text exchange with my son-in-law not long ago. He said that he believed that people who try to impose their will on others by requiring them to do everything exactly as they wish it to be done is a sign that person feels out of control. Makes sense that trying to control others would mollify a person's sense of feeling helpless to make the other situations in life different.
Some people can exert that frustration through a hobby. But there are those who feel pinned down and even believe they can't "afford" the luxury of enjoying life with a hobby. The term often used is "I have obligations; you have choices."
If this is accompanied by deep depression, and you know someone who exhibits these characteristics, it would be wise to help them get professional counseling. Anything else might lead to tragic results.
But, if you live with a person who has little ability to enjoy anything but work or obligations, try your best to encourage that person to stop and smell the roses with you. It's time for an attitude adjustment. Do you remember the old saying, "You can change your attitude if you so wish"? It's true. A person can elect to be happy or sad, positive or negative.
We all have responsibilities, but they shouldn't consume our lives to the point that nothing else appears important. Let's face it. None of us are getting out alive. As we take in our last breaths, do we want to remember a life full of obligations or one filled with love, laughter and the people (and animals) that mean the most to us?
That doesn't mean that we ever ignore our responsibilities. The key to this all is balance. A balanced life affords us the desire to work hard but enjoy our lives with those we love.
I am not a psychologist, but I've lived long enough to know what truly matters in life. So, if you see someone struggling and out of control, turn on the unconditional love in your heart and help them to see what truly matters.
Til Next Time,
Carol